Down and Out in Beverly Hills

by Ian Marter

When Jerry Baskins, a depressed derelict, tries to drown himself in David and Barbara Whiteman's swimming pool, David tries to help him get back on his feet This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0352318635
• ISBN13: 9780352318633
• Release Date: January 1986
• Publisher: Carol Publishing Corporation
• Length: 144 Pages
• Weight: 0.18 lbs.

Customer Reviews

Clever and readable novel based on the film

The story of a tramp who finds his way into the household of a rich family, and gradually changes their lives. Being 1980s based, the story reminds us of what we were really like in those days, with our over-reliance on fads (the guru, the dog psychologist, the radio psychologist) and neglect of important issues like homelessness and our own children.This book is based on the film of the same name, but where it lacks the charisma of the three leading actors, it compensates by fleshing out their characters. There are additional bits ad pieces put in (in the book the son is gay, whereas in the film he is just a bit effeminate) which make it more thought-provoking, but not too serious.Marter skilfully captures the comedy and mayhem of the film, without losing pace. 'Novelising' a film or television programme is a difficult skill to master, but Marter has managed it. Find a copy if you can!